To cary my quad in the bed I need to get a longer shank on the hitch to move the TT back 4.5 inches. Using a solid WD hitch. Going from 12 inches, pin to ball to 16.5 inches from pin to ball. Towing 28 ft TT, 7500lbs loaded. Will the leverage of the extra length of the shank be a killer for the factory class IV hitch?

 

I wouldn't think it would. Same weight being applied to it and all, but it could give you more sway. It increases the leverage the trailer has on the back of the truck.

 

Close the tailgate as much as possible. Use ratchet straps to hold it up.

 

Thought you were in prison when I read the title , I would strap the tailgate up first, longer receiver could make it drive squirrly with enough weight.

 

You can get one of these but look closely at the weight rating notices.

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-EXTENDER~HE06.htm

 

I think that moving it back will definitely make a difference in the way your truck handles and you may not like it , its only 4.5 inches b ut it will make a diff

 

I would not use an extender. I would just get a new solid Draw-tite shank that is 4.5 inches longer. How would it be different than the bed and frame being 4.5 inches longer behind the rear axle?

 

I thought the thread was started by my GF.

I'm not too amped on the stock hitch I think I'd get a class V. When I start towing more I'm going too.

 

You think your GF wants a longer shank? A class V would be overkill for me but they are beefy.